11 Questions You Must Ask to Reserve the Perfect RV Campsite

Nearly 40% of first-time RV campers end up at sites that don’t properly fit their needs, leading to frustrating vacation experiences. You’ll want to avoid becoming part of that statistic by asking the right questions before making your reservation. Whether you’re planning your maiden RV journey or you’re a seasoned road warrior, knowing exactly what to ask can mean the difference between a perfect camping spot and an uncomfortable stay that leaves you wishing you’d done more homework.

What Are the Site’s Length and Width Specifications?

When booking an RV campsite, knowing your vehicle’s exact dimensions is essential for ensuring a proper fit. Measure your RV’s length from bumper to bumper, including exterior components like ladders and spare tires.

Don’t forget to account for slide-outs that can extend your width beyond the standard 8 feet. Most national park campgrounds restrict RV length to 30 feet or less, so you’ll need to confirm whether your vehicle meets the site’s requirements. For optimal site selection, remember that extended slide-outs can add 2 to 3 feet on each side of your RV.

Be specific when asking about length and width limitations, as these vary considerably between campgrounds. Remember that Class A motorhomes can reach 45 feet, while Class C units typically max out at 28 feet.

You’ll want to verify that your RV’s height, usually between 10 to 13 feet, won’t pose any access issues.

Does the Electrical Service Match My RV’s Requirements?

Understanding your RV’s electrical requirements is essential before booking a campsite.

Knowing your RV’s power needs isn’t just helpful – it’s crucial for a successful camping experience and proper site selection.

Most RVs have utility connections located on the driver’s side of the vehicle.

You’ll need to confirm whether your RV uses a 30-amp or 50-amp system and verify the campsite can accommodate your needs. While 30-amp service provides 3,600 watts of power, 50-amp delivers up to 12,000 watts for larger RVs with multiple appliances. Many campgrounds offer multi-outlet pedestals to accommodate different RV electrical needs.

• Ask if the site offers 30-amp, 50-amp, or both types of hookups
• Confirm if you’ll need an adapter if the site’s amperage doesn’t match your RV
• Check the total wattage requirements of your appliances to avoid overloading circuits
• Inquire about the condition of the electrical pedestals and their maintenance schedule
• Request a site closer to the electrical source to minimize voltage drop from long connections

Which Hookup Options Are Available at the Site?

Before booking your campsite, you’ll need to know exactly which hookup options are available for your RV. Ask if the site offers full hookups (water, electric, and sewer) or partial hookups.

For electricity, confirm whether they provide 20, 30, or 50 AMP service to match your RV’s requirements. Consider bringing a surge protector to safeguard your RV’s electrical system from power fluctuations.

Don’t forget to inquire about additional amenities like cable TV, Wi-Fi, or telephone connections if they’re important for your stay.

Most hookups are located on the driver’s side of your RV, but it’s worth confirming their placement at the specific site.

You’ll also want to know if you’ll need any adapters or converters for the connections. If sewer hookups aren’t available, ask about the location of dump stations for emptying your tanks.

What Type of Site Configuration Will I Get?

The layout and configuration of your RV site can greatly impact your camping experience.

You’ll want to know exactly what you’re getting before you arrive to guarantee your rig fits properly and you’ll have enough space for your outdoor living area.

Ask specific questions about the site’s dimensions, surface type, and whether it’s pull-through or back-in. Be sure to designate specific areas for various activities like cooking, relaxing, and entertainment spaces.

• Check if the site is level or sloped – this affects how easily you can stabilize your RV.
• Confirm there’s adequate space for your slideouts, awnings, and outdoor furniture.
• Ask about the parking spur’s surface material (concrete, gravel, or dirt) for stability.
• Verify if there’s a separate living area with a picnic table and fire ring.
• Inquire about privacy features like vegetation or spacing between neighboring sites.

How Far in Advance Can I Make My Reservation?

When planning your RV camping adventure, booking windows vary considerably across different parks and campgrounds.

For most national parks, you’ll need to book individual sites six months ahead, while group sites require up to 12 months’ notice.

State parks have their own rules – for example, Florida gives residents an 11-month window and non-residents 10 months.

Some popular destinations like Yellowstone allow reservations up to 13 months in advance. You’ll want to act quickly during peak seasons and holidays when sites fill up fast.

Your best strategy is to research specific park policies and book as soon as the reservation window opens. Private campgrounds often accept bookings a full year ahead.

Consider weekday stays instead of weekends for better availability, and keep checking for cancellations.

Using Recreation.gov or calling the park directly are your main booking options.

What Essential Amenities Are Included With the Site?

Understanding your campsite’s included amenities can make or break your RV camping experience. Don’t assume every site offers the same features.

Research your campsite’s amenities before arrival – what’s standard at one location may be a premium upgrade at another.

Ask specific questions about electrical hookups, water access, and waste management facilities to guarantee they match your RV’s requirements. Also inquire about Wi-Fi availability, shower facilities, and security measures that’ll keep you comfortable and safe during your stay. Consider bringing leveling blocks to ensure your RV sits perfectly flat on uneven terrain. Travel expenses tend to be lower with RV camping compared to traditional hotels and resorts.

• Check electrical hookup specifications (15-amp, 30-amp, or 50-amp) to match your RV’s needs
• Confirm water supply locations and whether they’re designated for drinking or grey water
• Ask about shower, laundry, and restroom facilities’ proximity to your site
• Verify if picnic tables, fire rings, and grills are provided or need to be rented
• Inquire about Wi-Fi strength and cellular coverage if you need to stay connected

What Are the Total Costs and Available Discounts?

Savvy RV campers know that getting clear answers about total costs and available discounts can save hundreds of dollars during their stay.

Ask about the base nightly rate and inquire whether utilities are included or charged separately. Don’t forget to question potential extra fees for pets, amenities, or environmental charges. Luxury RV resorts tend to have significantly higher rates due to their premium amenities and services.

You’ll also want to clarify if there are any local taxes or seasonal rate adjustments. Consider that rental insurance coverage may affect your overall camping budget if you’re using a rented RV.

Next, explore money-saving opportunities. Ask about extended-stay discounts, as weekly or monthly rates can notably reduce your costs.

Mention any membership programs you belong to, like KOA, and inquire about off-season rates or package deals. If you’re planning multiple visits, check if the park offers loyalty discounts.

Remember that rates can vary dramatically by location, so comparing different parks in your target area is worth your time.

What’s the Campground’s Cancellation Policy?

Life’s uncertainties make it essential to know a campground’s cancellation policy before booking your RV site. Understanding these policies can save you money and prevent frustration if your plans change.

Most campgrounds have specific rules about cancellations, modifications, and refunds that you’ll need to follow carefully. During popular holiday seasons, cancellation policies are typically stricter to protect the campground’s interests.

• Check the cancellation timeframe – many require 30 days’ notice for a full refund
• Ask about cancellation fees, which typically range from $10 to $25
• Understand which fees are non-refundable, like credit card charges or site lock-in fees
• Learn the process for modifications and whether they’ll affect your pricing
• Verify if they’ve special policies for emergencies or COVID-19 situations

Remember that refunds can take up to 30 days to process, and some campgrounds won’t refund for weather-related cancellations or early departures.

How Is the Cell Service and Internet Connectivity?

When you’re planning an extended RV stay, reliable connectivity can make or break your camping experience. Start by checking the FCC National Broadband Map for cellular coverage in the area and research camper-generated ratings on RV mobile internet websites.

Ask the campground if they provide WiFi and whether they’ve installed signal boosters or distributed antenna systems. Be aware that terrain features, building materials, and distance from cell towers can impact connectivity. Consider checking crowdsourced coverage maps from platforms like OpenSignal and Cellmapper for real-world data on signal performance.

If you need reliable internet for work, verify which carriers have the strongest coverage and consider bringing your own signal booster. Don’t rely solely on the campground’s advertised WiFi – check recent reviews from other campers about actual speeds and reliability.

Remember that popular campgrounds often face network congestion during peak seasons, so plan accordingly.

What Are the Access Roads and Site Conditions Like?

Maneuvering your RV safely to your campsite depends heavily on road conditions and accessibility. Before making your reservation, ask specific questions about the roads leading to your site and the conditions you’ll encounter.

You’ll want to know if the roads are paved or unpaved, their width, and any clearance restrictions that might affect your rig. Having clear signage systems throughout the park’s roads helps ensure safe and efficient navigation to your site. In Colorado, be sure to research alternate routes as some mountain passes are not suitable for RV travel.

• Ask about road surface types (paved, gravel, or dirt) and their current condition, especially after recent weather events
• Inquire about road width and any tight turns that could challenge your RV size
• Check for height restrictions due to bridges, tunnels, or overhanging trees
• Confirm if there are steep grades or challenging terrain that might affect your vehicle’s performance
• Verify the site itself is level and has adequate space for your RV’s length and slides

Are There Any Seasonal or Weather-Related Considerations?

Weather patterns can make or break your RV camping experience, so asking about seasonal conditions should top your reservation checklist.

Ask about typical temperatures for your planned dates, including nighttime lows and daytime highs, especially at higher elevations where temps can drop considerably.

Temperature swings can be dramatic at higher elevations, so always check both daytime and nighttime forecasts before your camping trip.

Find out if the area’s prone to severe weather like thunderstorms, flooding, or high winds. You’ll want to know about seasonal hazards such as wildfire risks in summer or icy roads in winter. For winter camping especially, inquire whether the campground offers tank heaters and skirting options.

Don’t forget to inquire about the campground’s emergency protocols and closest shelter locations.

Check whether you’ll need special equipment like heated water hoses for winter camping or extra ventilation for summer heat.

Ask about site-specific concerns too, like low-lying areas that might flood or exposed spots that catch strong winds.

Recap

Booking your dream RV site shouldn’t be a shot in the dark. You’ll save time, money, and headaches by asking these vital questions before making your reservation. Like a GPS guiding you to your destination, these queries guarantee you’ll get exactly what you need for your rig and camping style. Don’t skip this essential step – your perfect outdoor adventure depends on getting the right information upfront.